Bringing comfort to our youngest patients
Thanks to generous community donations, the Bendigo Health Foundation can provide distraction toys for children attending the Bendigo Health Emergency Department and Day of Surgery Admission (DOSA).
Coming to hospital for surgery or attending the Emergency Department can be a daunting experience for children. Distraction toys provide comfort and reassurance, helping children remain calm in what can sometimes be a frightening time.
Emergency Department Nurse Unit Manager Kylie Maddern said the toys can help children feel more comfortable throughout their hospital journey.
“They help reduce anxiety and fear by giving children something positive to focus on during what can be an unfamiliar and stressful experience. Distraction can also support children during procedures, assessments and periods of waiting, helping them feel more settled and engaged.”
The toys provided to children include slinkies, cars, bouncing putty, puzzles, and other age-appropriate items that can be enjoyed while they are waiting or receiving care.
Clinical Nurse Specialist in DOSA, Jacinta Andrews, said the toys also help staff connect with children.
“We find being able to provide a distraction item to kids allows staff to build a rapport and play with children, aiding their journey through the surgery process. It’s such a help – we want to take the ‘scary’ out of coming in for surgery if we can, and I feel it’s received well by parents.”
While a distraction toy is a small gesture, it makes a meaningful difference to our youngest patients and their families — helping children feel calmer and more comfortable during their time in hospital.
It’s a wonderful reminder that all donations, large or small, can make a difference to the care provided at Bendigo Health.